Summer Swaps: Simple Shifts for a Lighter, Slower Season

Nutrition + FitnessEssential OilsWellnessEncouragementParenting + Kids

Jul 8

Summer is here — and if you're anything like me (and most moms I talk to), you're craving more ease, more fun, and a lot less pressure. Between juggling kids at home, shifting routines, and trying to squeeze in a little time for yourself, it’s easy to feel like summer flies by without truly refueling you.

So today, I’m sharing simple summer swaps that can help you slow down, reconnect with what matters, and actually enjoy this season — without needing a total lifestyle overhaul. These gentle shifts are perfect for moms of kids of all ages and will help you recharge now so you're not running on fumes come back-to-school time.

1. Swap Overwhelm for Citrus in the Diffuser

When the energy in your home starts to feel a little too much, grab your citrus oils. Diffusing oils like Endless Summer, Lemon, Wild Orange, or Grapefruit can instantly shift the mood — they're bright, uplifting, and help create a sense of clarity and lightness.

Summer Blend Idea:
✨ 3 drops Lemon
✨ 2 drops Grapefruit
✨ 2 drops Spearmint
→ This blend feels like a fresh breeze through your space!

💧 Here is a cart for you to order some of the summer oils https://link.doterra.com/-r9E4e

2. Swap Podcasts for Playlists

As much as I love a good podcast, sometimes what we really need is less information and more restoration. Try creating a few go-to playlists to shift the energy in your home — whether it’s calming instrumental for quiet time, upbeat tunes for getting everyone out the door, or nostalgic summer hits for your own mental reset.

🎧 Pro tip: Music regulates your nervous system more than you think. Let sound set the tone for peace.

3. Swap Busyness for Connection

Forget the perfectly planned playdates and full calendars. This summer, choose intentional connection over complicated schedules. Invite a friend over for iced tea while the kids run wild in the backyard. Say yes to spontaneous meetups. Give yourself permission to keep it easy.

Your friendships don’t need big plans — they need small, real moments.

4. Swap Apathy for Appointments

It’s easy to put things off in the name of summer “break” — dentist checkups, therapy sessions, wellness visits, even your own needs. But every time you take care of a task you've been avoiding, you send yourself the message: I matter, too.

Start small. Pick one appointment you've been putting off and just book it. That’s self-care in action.

5. Swap Pressure for Play

Self-care doesn’t have to be solo or scheduled. It can look like:

A barefoot walk through the grass
Reading a fun novel while your kids play
Saying no to the extra thing so you can go to bed early
Letting go of “productive” and choosing present

Remember: You Deserve to Enjoy Summer Too

You don’t need a beach vacation or a total mindset makeover. You just need a few intentional swaps that support your nervous system, nurture your connections, and bring joy into the everyday.

When you do, summer becomes what it was always meant to be: a soft reset — for both you and your family.

💛 Let’s Chat:

Which summer swap are you trying first?
Share this post with a friend who needs a reminder to slow down, and tag me on Instagram @karidavis_thewell with your favorite tip!